Team Quebec starred from start to finish in the sixth annual Drivers’ Holiday Challenge at The Raceway at Western Fair District on Tuesday, Dec. 9 as Louis-Philippe Roy stole the show with an incredible six-win performance in the 11-race competition.
Roy’s victories included a sweep of both the early and late doubles, scoring with Larjon Levi ($3.20) and Credit Kawhi ($6.20) to kick off the card, then adding wins with Yes ($5.50) in race seven, Scratchin An Itch ($8) in race eight and closing out the night with Silver Beast ($2.60) and Fireinsidemyveins ($3.60). For the first time, the event was held in a region-based team format, with four pairs of drivers each representing an area of the country. Roy's Team Quebec partner, Samuel Fillion, won with Lord Anthony ($8.10) in race four, making it seven wins for the duo.
"Sam [Fillion] is like a brother to me," Roy said after the win. "I wish we could race every night together, so to team up here tonight was a real pleasure for me."
With 165 points, they finished ahead of Team Western Canada (119), Team Maritimes (118) and Team Ontario (95) to take the title of 2025 Holiday Challenge Champions. Austin Sorrie was the only other driver to record multiple wins, scoring with Beethreepo ($8.30) in race five and Pretty Missy May ($7.20) in race nine. He and Paul MacKenzie finished third as part of Team Maritimes, one point back of Team Western Canada, consisting of Phil Hudon and Daryl Thiessen. Defending champion Lorne House and Garrett Rooney combined to form Team Ontario.
Beyond the on-track excitement, the event once again showcased the industry’s generosity. This year’s challenge raised $12,000 in cash and toys for the Toys for Tots campaign, continuing a proud tradition of giving back to the community during the holiday season.
“The Drivers’ Holiday Challenge has become a marquee event for us,” said Amy O’Toole, The Raceway’s Manager of Equine Programming. “It’s a great way to celebrate the season, showcase top talent and support a wonderful cause.”
The challenge was broadcast on the track's YouTube channel and on Primetime Racing and the Game+ television network. A full live stream replay is available below.
The Raceway’s next live program comes up this Friday night with a first post of 5:50 p.m.
To view Tuesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Tuesday Results - Western Fair Raceway.
(With files from Western Fair District)